Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Proposed federal funding cuts could impact K-12 schools in Whatcom County, with the Nooksack Valley School District facing a loss of $244,000. Bellingham Public Schools anticipates nearly $1 million in cuts, affecting programs for vulnerable students. The U.S. Senate is set to deliberate on the budget this summer.
Eugenio Suarez's sixth-inning grand slam led the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 5-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners, completing a series sweep. The Mariners, now with a losing record for the first time since April, struggle with runners in scoring position, finishing 1 for 11. Seattle will have a day off before facing the Cleveland Guardians at home.
HomesNOW! Not Later, a Bellingham organization, combats homelessness by constructing tiny home villages for those in need. Co-director Tina Hayes emphasizes the program's unique offering of time for residents to stabilize their lives without a strict time limit. The initiative relies entirely on donations, allowing residents to contribute to building their own homes.
Faber Construction has commenced work on a new bank in Fairhaven, with completion expected by early December. The project is set to enhance local banking services and contribute to the community's economic development.
Whatcom County experienced a slight increase in tourism spending in 2024, with nearly 3.5 million visitors contributing to a growth of over 3%. Despite job support remaining above pre-pandemic levels, CEO Dylan Deane-Boyle expresses cautious optimism for continued growth amid challenges like rising inflation and Canadian travel sentiment.
Authorities intensified the manhunt for Travis Decker, 32, suspected of murdering his three daughters near Leavenworth, Washington. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office alerted residents in the Ingalls Creek area to secure their properties and report sightings. Evidence, including blood samples, was found in Decker's truck, prompting federal involvement in the search.
Birch Bay Waterslides in Birch Bay, WA, will reopen on June 14 after passing a reinspection by Whatcom County Health and Community Services. Two attractions, the hydro drop and ramp slide, remain closed for repairs following a 2023 incident where a patron broke his leg.
Bellingham City Council approved a resolution establishing the city as a "welcoming city," enhancing protections for immigrants and transgender residents. The measure builds on a 2017 resolution that limited local officials' involvement in immigration enforcement. Councilmember Hannah Stone emphasized avoiding the term "sanctuary city" due to its contentious connotations.
An RV fire in Bellingham, WA, caused no injuries after it spread to a second RV on Monday evening. The fire ignited when the owner attempted to start the RV with starter fluid after a long period of inactivity. Fire crews successfully extinguished the flames, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance for seasonal vehicles.
Josh Naylor hit a game-ending grand slam in the 11th inning, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 8-4 victory over the Seattle Mariners on June 9. The win halted a three-game losing streak for the Diamondbacks, who had initially led 4-0 before the Mariners tied the game in the ninth.